A 52-year-old Los Angeles County firefighter who died in an explosion at a Southern California quarry will be honored during a procession Wednesday to his final resting place.
Andrew Pontious, a 19-year veteran firefighter, was killed in the line of duty Friday when a burning tractor exploded in the quarry in the Antelope Valley community of Littlerock, north of Los Angeles. He is survived by his wife, his stepdaughter, his parents and his brother, a former county fire department captain.
A firefighter died this Friday after a fire in the Littlerock area, the Los Angeles County Fire Department reported.
Firefighters from the Los Angeles County Fire Department and nearby agencies will be part of the 11 a.m. procession from the coroner’s office near downtown Los Angeles to Forest Lawn-Covina Hills Cemetery.
Pontious also served the communities of El Monte, Rosemead and San Fernando during his career.
Firefighters arrived at the quarry on Friday around 2pm on Pearblossom Highway when part of the front-end loader exploded, killing Pontious and injuring a colleague. The second firefighter, who has not been identified, was treated at Antelope Valley Medical Center and released.
“I don’t know how the fire started and I don’t know what exploded,” Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone said at the time, noting that the investigation was just beginning.
Homicide and arson investigators with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department are investigating.
Marrone said Pontious was stationed at the station in Palmdale. He described him as a “wonderful man. He was married. He is a father. It is a great tragedy.”
Pontious was known for his exemplary work ethic, unwavering positive disposition and genuine love of helping people, department officials said. New firefighters can always count on him for guidance and mentorship, the department said. When the new battalion chiefs arrived, he was the first to give them a tour on their first day.
Pontious was also a talented cook who often volunteered even when it wasn’t on his schedule. Known affectionately as “Uncle,” he was said to enjoy spending time with his family, hunting, and studying wildlife. His passion for wildlife conservation was well known among colleagues and friends.
Gov. Gavin Newsom ordered flags at the state Capitol to fly at half-staff in honor of the fallen firefighter.
“His service protecting the Los Angeles community will never be forgotten,” the governor said in a statement a day after the tragedy.
